As a couple, discuss the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. Read each chapter together or individually, then focus your conversation on the following passages and discussion questions.
“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:5-6
- Talk about a time when you felt meaningfully engaged in prayer.
- Are there any religious activities or habits that you’re only doing to please other people? If so, what?
- What is something we could do “in secret” as a couple to deepen our relationship with God?
Jesus desires authentic relationship. When we put on our “voice” (Matthew 6:7) and try to use impressive words, it probably all sounds pretty empty to the Creator who sees every part of us, including the parts that are just trying to be impressive. When we’re transparent as we pray, we build a closer relationship with God. There is unparalleled joy in friend-to-friend conversation between us and Jesus. Authentic prayer can benefit marriage, too. Couples who come together to share their heart with God often enjoy greater intimacy with each other.
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